As we approached Tongariro National Park, there was a low fog and we could see much of the landscape. We checked into our hotel, the Chateau Tongariro Hotel (which was similar to the Overlook Hotel from Stephen Kings The Shining) and immediately went out on the Taranaki Falls. The path followed a stream through the forest until you emerged at an impressive waterfall. We took some pictures at the base of the falls, but when we climbed to the top the real show began. The fog had lifted revealing 2 volcano’s.
The second day, we hiked to see the Silica Rapids, a 3.5 mile walk to unique cream colored streams. We then drove to “Gollum’s pool” from Lord of the Rings. We hung out at this waterfall for over an hour as Bryce continues to enhance his rock throwing technique. We finished the Lord of the Rings Theme by climbing up the mountain to see Meads Wall, a volcanic structure used to film Mordor. The day wrapped up with a swim in the hotel pool and a meal at the “fine dining option” (which consisted of a meal with 30 silent people with my sons TV playing, and a portion size so small that I thought I ordered the children’s portion.” From now on, “Fine Dining” = Not for us.
At dinner that night, we decided that I would get up early and do the Tongrariro Crossing. I had to move quickly since our appointment to see Hobbitown was a 4:30 and we had 2 hours of driving. With the volatility of the weather, the loose footing, and 12 miles, we concluded that this was not safe for Bryce and I would go alone.
So, I left the little man and wife behind to hike 12 miles over and between 3 volcanoes (one was mount Doom). The hike involved climbing the Volcano, crossing the craters and navigating down a narrow scree (loose gravel) pathway with drops on both sides. The hike was challenging and the landscape was unworldly. I heeded all the warnings, but in hindsight, I could have done it with Bryce and would have loved to have Danielle by my side.
